Visit Northeast Florida

Jacksonville

Jacksonville and the Beaches provide a perfect escape for the traveler seeking a vacation destination that captures the lifestyle and landscape of an authentic Florida experience. An unmatched adventure in contrast, the sprawling northeast region of the state delivers a flawless display of breathtaking natural beauty balanced by a polished metropolitan flair. History, culture, sports and nature intersect at a regional crossroads of southern charm and coastal cool.

Along the stunning St. Johns riverfront, a burgeoning arts district rises from a diverse downtown landscape, illuminating the heart of the city with sophisticated style, while endless stretches of pristine white sand beaches foster relaxation and revelry in the salty seaside air. At the northern and southern borders, lavish resorts offer luxurious amenities infused with a historic Old World flavor. In the secret niches far from the worn avenues of the beaten path, quaint neighborhoods are thriving in their unique individuality, adding to the character of the community and the joy of discovery for any visitor. For decades, Jacksonville has quietly cultivated a loyal fan base captivated by the warm hospitality and vast array of entertaining activities found within the vibrant oceanfront community. Though once considered Florida’s best-kept secret, the word is out and there is no greater time than now to experience the dynamic possibilities of Jacksonville and the Beaches.

The Beaches

Just over the sprawling Intracoastal Waterway are the beaches, with more than 20 miles of white sand. There are four separate areas, each with its own unique characteristics:

Farthest north, the quaint, historic village of Mayport is home to casino boats and seafood restaurants offering their freshest catch. Head over to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, providing what many consider to be Jacksonville’s favorite biking and hiking trails. The park also offers camping and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding wilderness.

South of Mayport are the communities of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach. The intersection of Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach is a hot spot that seems to keep getting hotter. Enjoy casual and upscale dining, diverse shopping options and most of all – a very happening nightlife scene.

Rounding things out is Jacksonville Beach. The Sea Walk Pavilion, an outdoor amphitheater, hosts concerts, movies and festivals year-round. Get a tan, catch a wave on a boogie board or have a picnic on the beach. Nightlife is also hot in Jacksonville Beach, with oceanfront clubs and intimate pubs. For a good, wholesome time, try water slides, go-cart racing and laser tag at nearby Adventure Landing.

Amelia Island & Fernandina Beach

Only 30 Minutes from Downtown Jacksonville

Escape the everyday world and find inspiration in our peaceful, relaxed, seaport community. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Jacksonville, Amelia Island is easy to reach, but hard to forget. With 13 miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, and pristine waters, this barrier island has long been a beloved destination for visitors and residents alike. For the seventh consecutive year, Amelia was voted among the Top 10 North American Islands by Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards. Her upscale resorts, world-class spas, championship golf courses and exclusive restaurants combine with a charming collection of bed and breakfasts, historic sites and captivating festivals for an experience that’s uniquely Floridian.

St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra

Only 30 Minutes from Downtown Jacksonville

Just a short drive from downtown Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra offer sports fans an inspiring world of golf, history, nature, beautiful beaches…and shopping! Combined with world-class accommodations and dining, downtown’s next door neighbor provides all the ingredients for a memorable and fun visit.

St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, still echoes to the days when it was an important outpost of the Spanish Empire, while the splendor of the Victorian Age is preserved in the soaring architecture of Henry Flagler’s hotel. Brick-paved streets and horse-drawn carriages provide a memorable setting for exquisite dining, exploring art galleries and antique shopping.

Ponte Vedra’s elegant seaside resorts offer golf fans a perfect place to indulge their passion – including the TPC at Stadium Course, home of THE PLAYERS Championship. Nearby, the World Golf Hall of Fame enshrines the game’s greatest players in a setting that features two championship courses.

Attractions abound in this special place – 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches, the Castillo de San Marcos, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, two outlet malls, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and more than 60 others are here for sports fans to enjoy.